Lincoln MKX Reviews

The Lincoln MKX is a two-row, luxury midsize SUV with room for five. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available. The MKX is now in its second generation.

Lincoln MKX: 2016 to Present

The second-generation Lincoln MKX arrived in 2016. This model is one of four SUVs sold by Lincoln and shares its architecture with the Ford Edge. The MKX is available in four trim levels: Premier, Select, Reserve and Black Label.

The Lincoln MKX is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine making 303 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Also available is a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine that makes 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. When paired with front-wheel drive, both engines deliver 17/26 mpg city/highway.

The second-generation MKX is an inch longer between the wheels and 3.3 inches longer overall when compared with the first-generation model. Like the previous edition, the Lincoln MKX has a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Passenger volume measures 108.3 cubic feet. This SUV offers 37.2 cubic feet of standard storage capacity, which is expandable to 68.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

For 2016, the Lincoln MKX adopts the marque’s design language, amplified by a broad split-wing grille and a new headlight design with LED daytime running lights. The lower air intake is hemmed in by large embrasures housing LED fog lights.

On its sides, the MKX is defined by body sculpting and character lines, as well as rocker panel embellishments. The high beltline stays linear before rising slightly at the rear, just as the roofline slopes gently and is finished by a rear spoiler. At the rear, the MKX is fashioned by wraparound combination lamps connected by a long, narrow brake light strip. Reflectors, body sculpting and a pair of oversized exhaust finishers are also present.

Inside, the multicontour front seats with available 22-way control were designed to maximize comfort and reduce fatigue. Every model comes with keyless entry, which activates the puddle lights on the side mirrors. Illuminated door handles provide ease of access at night.

To the rear is a split-folding rear seat with generous room for three. The MKX offers superior head- and legroom in both rows.

The MKX features a push-button gear selector that’s located on the left side of the center stack. Each model features an instrument panel with a two-analog display with a digital driver’s information center in the middle. The MyLincoln Touch infotainment system is present and still functions slowly, but its voice command system is one of the better ones in the industry.

To extend the MKX’s appeal, Lincoln offers a pair of Revel audio systems. Select and Reserve editions are outfitted with a 13-speaker system, while Black Label models receive a 19-speaker system with a 20-channel high-voltage hybrid amplifier.

All models are generously equipped with power accessories, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera and proximity key with push-button start. Available options include a panoramic moonroof, adaptive cruise control and a trailer tow package.

Earlier Lincoln MKX Models

The first-generation Lincoln MKX was produced from 2007 to 2015. For the first four years, a 3.5-liter V6 making 265 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque was standard. That engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This SUV was EPA-rated at 16/23 mpg city/highway. Later engineering improvements pushed those numbers to 18/25 mpg city/highway.

Beginning in 2011, Lincoln replaced the MKX’s engine with a 3.7-liter V6. The new engine makes 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, and boosted fuel economy to 19/26 mpg city/highway.

Along with introducing a new engine for 2011, Lincoln substantially changed the front fascia, outfitting this SUV with a pronounced split-wing horizontal grille. The rear fascia was also modified as a new liftgate with wraparound taillights was added.

Inside, the 2011 update brought forth an overhauled cabin with the first application of MyLincoln Touch, the brand’s touch-sensitive infotainment system. An SD-card navigation system was optional. Wood and aluminum trim changes were also accomplished and this SUV was also given an optional 14-speaker THX II audio system.

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